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Workers' compensation: injuries while working at home

The Internet enabled millions of Americans to join the workforce as "telecommuters." Telecommuting means that you work from home the majority of the time. But what happens if you are injured at home while working? Can you file for workers' compensation? This post will go over the issues involved in filing for one of these claims.

You can file a workers' compensation claim any time you are injured while working for your employer. That being said, whether or not you can receive compensation for working at home depends on your particular state's laws. For instance, some states are expansive and allow workers' compensation whenever you are injured in connection with your job. Other states only while you are under the direction of your employer.

For people who telecommute, it comes down to why you are working from home. If your employer requires you to work from home, as in, you are under their direct instructions to be at home, then you can likely file for a successful workers' compensation claim. Conversely, if you are working from home primarily for your benefit (i.e. because you are sick), then the success of your claim is not so clear.

This is a nuanced area of law, therefore, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of an attorney before proceeding.

As you can see, there is lots of nuance and room for argument in these cases. If you were seriously injured while working for your employer at home, then you may want to contact an attorney. The claim might seem straightforward, but the last thing you need is your workers' compensation claim denied, especially if you are unable to work. A lawyer can ensure that your claim receives fair and just treatment.